Top 10 Retro Games You Can Now Relive on PS5: From Hidden Gems to Beloved Classics
Key Takeaways:
- Sony’s PS5 has opened the door to revisiting beloved retro games, leveraging their PS2 emulator to bring classics to a new audience.
- Some ports and remasters may have technical quirks, but the nostalgia and charm of these games remain intact for those willing to dive in.
- Iconic titles such as Jak and Daxter, Dark Cloud 2, and Rogue Galaxy remind us why retro gaming is still alive and cherished today.
As gaming evolves, there’s nothing quite like revisiting the retro classics that laid the foundation for today’s gaming industry. For PS5 users, Sony has begun rolling out older titles using their new PS2 emulator, making it easier than ever to relive these gems. While the service is limited to PS1 and PS2 games (PS3 games, sadly, must still be streamed), it’s a boon for fans of old-school RPGs, platformers, and cult classics.
So grab your controller and prepare for a trip down memory lane! Let’s dive into 10 standout retro games that you can play on PS5 each one packed with nostalgia and timeless gameplay.
1. Ape Escape – One of Sony’s Best Platformers
If there’s one title that made innovative use of the original PlayStation’s DualShock controller, it’s Ape Escape. This quirky platformer used the right analog stick in revolutionary ways, not for camera control but as an integral part of gameplay. From swiping a gadget to rotating the stick to control specific tools, the mechanics were fresh and intuitive a bold leap for its time.
The game’s plot is as delightfully bizarre as its gameplay: players are tasked with capturing apes who’ve wreaked havoc after gaining intelligence. The variety of gadgets, creative levels, and catchy music make Ape Escape one of the most charming platformers in Sony’s lineup.
Why You Should Play:
This classic introduced mechanics that were ahead of their time, offering a mix of strategy, action, and humour. Now available on PS5, it’s the perfect entry point for newcomers or a nostalgia trip for veteran players.
2. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy – Still the Best of the Trilogy
Before the Jak and Daxter series went down a darker, grittier path, it began as a colourful, light-hearted platformer. The first game, The Precursor Legacy, perfectly balanced exploration, puzzle-solving, and collectibles. It was Naughty Dog’s leap into the 3D platforming genre after their success with Crash Bandicoot, and boy, did they nail it.
Players control Jak as he navigates a vibrant open world alongside his sarcastic sidekick, Daxter, collecting Power Cells to progress. The buttery-smooth controls and delightful visuals still hold up, even decades later.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a masterclass in platforming design, with tight controls and fun mechanics. Available on PS5 with improved visuals, it’s a no-brainer for fans of the genre.
3. Rogue Galaxy – A Space Opera Worth Exploring
Ever wanted to live out a Star Wars-esque adventure with pirate ships soaring through the stars? Look no further than Rogue Galaxy. Developed by Level-5, this action RPG takes players on a galaxy-spanning journey with Jaster Rogue, a small-town boy mistaken for a famous bounty hunter.
The real-time combat system is engaging, requiring players to carefully manage stamina, block attacks, and mix up their melee and ranged tactics. From lush alien landscapes to mysterious ancient ruins, the game’s environments are as varied as its deep, melodramatic plot.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a hidden gem for RPG lovers. While the story is a bit campy, the gameplay and vibrant world more than make up for it. Plus, it runs beautifully on PS5.
4. Dark Cloud 2 – A Dungeon-Crawling, City-Building Masterpiece
Part dungeon crawler, part city-builder, Dark Cloud 2 (or Dark Chronicle in some regions) is one of the most unique RPGs of its era. The gameplay loop involves exploring procedurally generated dungeons to gather materials and schematics, which are then used to rebuild towns in the overworld.
What sets it apart is its gorgeous art style and intricate time-travel mechanics. The choices players make while rebuilding towns affect the future, adding a layer of depth that feels incredibly rewarding.
Why You Should Play:
This cult classic blends two genres into a seamless experience. If you’re a fan of city-building games or RPGs, this one is a must-play, now polished for PS5.
5. Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain – A Zelda-Like with a Dark Twist
Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain offers a dark, gothic take on the top-down adventure formula pioneered by The Legend of Zelda. Players step into the shoes of Kain, a vampire who must navigate a world teeming with secrets, puzzles, and enemies to feed on.
The game’s non-linear structure allows for exploration at your own pace, with Kain’s vampiric abilities unlocking new areas as you progress. Add in a compelling day-night cycle and atmospheric storytelling, and you’ve got a game that’s still worth playing today.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a dark, brooding classic that’s perfect for fans of story-rich adventures. The updated version on PS5 breathes new life into this cult favourite.
6. Dino Crisis – Resident Evil with Dinosaurs
Imagine Resident Evil, but replace the zombies with dinosaurs. That’s Dino Crisis in a nutshell, and it’s as thrilling as it sounds. Developed by Capcom, the game blends survival horror with sci-fi elements, pitting players against Velociraptors and T-Rexes in a remote research facility.
From resource management to solving puzzles, the gameplay feels like classic Resident Evil, but the dinosaur encounters add an extra layer of adrenaline-pumping tension.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a forgotten gem that deserves to stand alongside Capcom’s other classics. PS5 owners should give this dino-packed survival horror a try.
7. Wild Arms 3 – A Western-Inspired JRPG
Wild Arms 3 takes the JRPG formula and slaps a Wild West coat of paint on it. The game’s unique setting is complemented by its fun, turn-based combat system, where each character wields their own firearms that must be reloaded during battles.
The blend of puzzle-solving, exploration, and frontier-inspired visuals creates an experience unlike any other JRPG of its time.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a unique take on the genre with a beautiful cel-shaded art style. Fans of JRPGs looking for something different will find a lot to love here.
8. Okage: Shadow King – A Quirky, Underrated RPG
For those who enjoy their RPGs a little unconventional, Okage: Shadow King is a must-play. This bizarre, turn-based game follows a young boy who becomes the servant of an evil overlord named Stan. The humour is offbeat, the characters are eccentric, and the world feels like something out of a Tim Burton movie.
While the PS5 version has some technical quirks, the charm and creativity of the game make it worth powering through.
Why You Should Play:
It’s one of the most original RPGs of its time, offering a mix of humor and heart.
9. Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue – Surprisingly Great
Licensed games don’t always have the best reputation, but Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue bucks the trend. This 3D platformer is a fantastic collect-a-thon, featuring iconic locations from the movie and gameplay that’s both fun and accessible.
Exploring Andy’s house, Al’s Toy Barn, and other nostalgic locations makes this a treat for fans of the franchise.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a fun, nostalgia-packed platformer that’s great for kids and adults alike.
10. Sly 2: Band of Thieves – Stealth Platforming at Its Best
One of the standout titles from the PS2 era, Sly 2 offers a perfect mix of stealth gameplay, platforming, and mini-games. The episodic structure feels like a heist-filled TV series, with Sly and his gang working together to pull off elaborate schemes.
Why You Should Play:
It’s a fun, polished platformer with excellent characters and gameplay. PS5 makes it even better.
FAQs
Q: Are these games free on PS5?
Some games, like Jak and Daxter, may be free to download for players who purchased them on PS4. Others are available via PS Plus Premium.
Q: Do these games run well on PS5?
Most games run smoothly, though some, like Okage: Shadow King, have minor graphical glitches.
Q: Are there any PS3 games included in this collection?
Currently, PS3 games must be streamed and are not available for download on PS5.
